The FEGLI Coverage Cliff Few Federal Employees See Coming
FEGLI doubles coverage for employees under 35, then phases out by 45. Early planning avoids coverage gaps and rising premiums later.
Author: Francis Xavier (FX) Bergmeister
When a Spouse Controls Your TSP Withdrawals—But Not Your Legacy
Married FERS participants face strict TSP spousal consent rules that can freeze withdrawals, yet beneficiaries—not spouses—control the account after death.
Why Roth Conversions Require a Different Playbook for Federal Widows with a FERS Pension
Federal widows with FERS and Social Security benefit most from small, strategic Roth conversions to avoid IRMAA and balance lifetime taxes.
Why Avoiding IRMAA Can Cost Federal Retirees More in the Long Run
Paying Medicare’s IRMAA fees briefly can cut lifetime taxes for FERS retirees.
Smart Roth Conversions: How to Use Partial IRA, 401(k), or TSP Transfers for Tax-Efficient Retirement
Partial Roth conversions let you move IRA, 401(k), or TSP assets gradually, managing taxes, reducing RMDs, and building tax-free retirement income.
When the “IRS” Calls, It May Be AI
AI-driven government impersonation scams are targeting federal retirees.
Standard Deduction or Itemize? What Federal Employees Should Know for 2025
Federal employees: Don’t assume last year’s tax approach works in 2025—higher SALT caps mean itemizing could finally beat the standard deduction.
ABLE Accounts: A Powerful but Underused Planning Tool for FERS and Military Families
ABLE accounts let federal and military families save for disability needs tax-free while protecting SSI, Medicaid, and survivor benefits—key to long-term planning.
Saving for Children Under FERS: What Works, What Doesn’t, and Why
Not all savings accounts for children are equal for FERS families.
How Medicare Premiums Quietly Erode Income for FERS Retirees
Federal retirees must plan early for the growing impact of Medicare on their Social Security and FERS annuity income.
